Phenomenal Events in Taiwan to Add to Your Upcoming Family Travel Plans

By Alyssa Martinus

When it comes to bringing people together, Taiwan’s festivals and events shine as celebrations of joy, culture, and community. From lively marathons to fireworks lighting up the night sky, every month offers a new reason to gather. What makes these occasions special is not just their colour and spectacle, but the way they create shared experiences for kids, teens, and parents alike, turning family trips into lasting memories.

Travelling as a family means finding activities that work for everyone, and Taiwan delivers in the best way. Kids can enjoy firework displays, teens can soak up the buzz of dragon boat races, and parents can connect with the rich traditions woven into each event. Here are some events to add to your family itinerary whether you are cheering together from the sidelines, exploring festival markets, or simply soaking in the warm atmosphere. Taiwan’s celebrations highlight the power of community and the joy of experiencing something side by side as a family.

1. Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival

A parade of lanterns and a big main lantern of the Chinese zodiac animal of the year
Photo source: New Taipei City Travel

Step into a world where the night sky becomes a canvas of light and colour. Every year, the Taiwan Lantern Festival lights up every town and transforms the island into a glowing wonderland. A variety of unique lantern events take place across different districts, from the thrilling Yanshui Beehive Fireworks Festival to the magical Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival, where thousands of glowing wishes drift into the night sky.

The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is perfect for families travelling with children. In the past, villagers would release lanterns into the sky as a signal to notify others that their village was safe. It is now a tradition where people can experience the joy of decorating colourful paper lanterns with heartfelt messages before releasing them into the night sky. Watching the lanterns rise together, glowing softly against the dark, creates a beautiful shared moment of wonder and connection.

Glowing lanterns being released into the night sky above.
Photo source: Taiwan Tourism Administration

The Taiwan Lantern Festival is an experience that will light up your trip. Book a trip to Pingxi in early March next year to experience this magnificent event which is set to happen on the *3^rd of March 2026. This travel package includes this festival so you can make your next trip a memorable one. It is best to have your itinerary ready in advance, this magical season draws crowds from near and far and you will not want to miss a single moment.

2. Taipei International Cycle Show

A group of people racing against each other through a virtual cycling simulator.
Photo source: Official Taipei Cycle Website

The Taipei Cycle Show is where the future of cycling comes to life, making it an inspiring outing for families who want to see innovation up close. Each spring, the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center transforms into a showcase of sleek road bikes, powerful e-bikes, and bold new designs that appeal to both teens eager for adventure and parents who value greener ways of living. Thousands gather from all around the globe to attend this event which is the largest bike event in Asia.

Families can do more than just look as special demo zones invite visitors to test-ride bikes and experience smart cycling technology firsthand. Teens will love experiencing new cutting-edge technology and immersive biking simulators, while parents can discover eco-friendly trends and community-focused solutions that reflect Taiwan’s strong cycling culture. At its heart, the show is a celebration of Taiwan as the “bicycle kingdom,” blending innovation, sustainability, and passion into one event.

Visitors testing out various new bike designs along with e-scooters and more.
Photo source: Official Taipei Cycle Website

For families, it is a chance to connect through discovery, share in the excitement of progress, and leave inspired to make cycling part of everyday life. Add this spectacular showcase to your Taiwan itinerary next year by planning a trip to Taipei at the end of March as the upcoming event is set to be held from the *25^th to the 28^th of March 2026. Have a look at this travel package to Taipei that can put your holiday plans together like a breeze.

3. Ironman Penghu

Athletes cycling on the roads of Penghu, passing by a beautiful temple.
Photo source: Ironman Taiwan’s Official Facebook Page

The Ironman Penghu is more than just a race. It is a celebration of endurance, community, and island life in one of Taiwan’s most beautiful destinations. Set in the heart of the Penghu Islands, families and supporters gather along the coast to cheer athletes as they swim, bike, and run through stunning seaside landscapes and across the famous Penghu Great Bridge.

What makes the event truly special is the way the local community comes together. Volunteers line the course with warm smiles, schools and cultural groups put on performances, and neighbours open their doors to welcome visitors from around the world. For families, it is not only exciting to watch the athletes take on such an incredible challenge, but also a chance to experience Penghu’s traditions, taste fresh island seafood, and enjoy beachside fun together.

A crowd of athletes getting ready to enter the water for the first sector.
Photo source: https://focustaiwan.tw/photos/20250413ENP0003m

Here, the Ironman spirit meets island hospitality, creating a festival-like atmosphere where every cheer, clap, and smile makes the journey unforgettable. Keen on witnessing this once in a lifetime spectacle? Visit Penghu in the mid of April next year as the upcoming event is set to be held on the *12^th of April 2026. Get better flight deals and book tickets from a countless list of activities on PickATrip.com.my for the most seamless holiday planning you will ever experience.

4. Dragon Boat Festival

A team of people rowing a vibrant boat shaped like a dragon across a scenic river.
Photo source: Tim Ruben Weimer, Behance

The long-awaited Dragon Boat Racing event takes place during the Dragon Boat Festival to welcome the summer with the vibrancy of tradition and community spirit. Picture the excitement as beautifully painted dragon boats glide across the water, paddled in time with the beat of drums as spectators watch the teams race to capture the flag set at the finish line. Take part in the light-hearted tradition of balancing eggs at exactly noon for a sprinkle of good luck, a fun challenge for both kids and adults.

Here are the top 3 spots with the perfect atmosphere for this festival:

Sun Moon Lake (Nantou County)

This is the most scenic and internationally famous dragon boat festival as the lake is surrounded by mountains, making it perfect for photos and taking in the scenery.

Keelung River (Taipei City)

Right in the capital, this race is very lively and accessible. Feel free to explore the nearby night markets after!

Love River (Kaohsiung City)

A beautiful riverside spot where racing meets leisure. Stroll along the romantic riverbanks, enjoy cafes, and watch competitive races in a relaxed urban setting.

A man at the front of the boat reaching out to capture a yellow flag.
Photo source: Tim Ruben Weimer, Behance

The best time to visit Taiwan next year and take part in this festival would be in the mid of June as it is set to take place on the *19^th of June 2026. Plan a trip to Sun Moon Lake for this festival with this travel package that has all you need. Whether you are soaking in the mountain views at Sun Moon Lake or unwinding by Kaohsiung’s scenic Love River, the Dragon Boat Festival promises endless moments of joy, and connection that will make your family’s itinerary sparkle with unforgettable memories.

5. Taiwan International Balloon Festival

Crowds of families looking at beautiful, glowing hot air balloons.
Photo source: Official Taiwan International Balloon Festival Website

Every summer, the skies above Taitung’s Luye Highlands transform into a kaleidoscope of colour during the Taiwan International Balloon Festival. What started out as an initiative to boost tourism in Taitung has now turned into one of the world’s most anticipated, longest-running hot air balloon events, raking in guests from every corner of the globe and winning awards.

Families will love the magical sights of dozens of colourful balloons, from classic shapes to playful characters like Doraemon, rising into the sky at sunrise and sunset. Kids can enjoy exciting tethered rides, while evenings come alive with glowing balloons, fireworks, drone shows, and music. With pilots from around the world and a joyful crowd, the festival offers a fun-filled atmosphere perfect for all ages. It is an unforgettable adventure that turns Taiwan’s east coast into a family playground in the sky.

Luminous hot air balloons hovering in the beautiful sky.
Photo source: Official Taiwan International Balloon Festival Website

The best time to visit Taitung for this festival next year is between mid of July till mid of August with this package so you do not miss out on the best of Taiwan. For families eager to experience the thrill up close, tethered rides are available daily (except Tuesdays) and should be booked in advance online on their official website here, as tickets sell out quickly. Gather the family and get ready to make sky-high memories in the heart of Taiwan’s most enchanting summer festival.

6. Taipei Marathon

Runners beginning the start of their journey at the starting line.
Photo source: https://www.travel.taipei/en/event-calendar/details/56247

The Taipei Marathon, first held in 1986, has grown into the largest and most spirited city marathon in Taiwan. Every December, thousands of runners take to the streets while crowds of families, friends, and locals gather to cheer them on. The city buzzes with excitement as the course winds from Taipei City Hall, past 24 iconic landmarks, and finishes at the Taipei Municipal Stadium.

More than just a race, the event is a celebration of togetherness. Parents and kids line the sidewalks with handmade signs, schools and community groups sing and clap, and strangers unite in applause for runners and athletes of all abilities. It is a joyful display of sportsmanship, where perseverance, encouragement, and shared energy create lasting memories for both participants and spectators. For families traveling to Taipei, the marathon offers a unique way to experience the city’s warmth and community spirit.

Runners passing by a monumental temple en route.
Photo source: https://thestoly.com/2024/12/run-the-city-redefine-your-limits-with-taipei-marathon-2024/

Whether you are supporting a loved one, exploring nearby attractions, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, the Taipei Marathon is an inspiring reminder of how sport brings people closer, one stride, one cheer, and one finish line at a time. Plan your trip to Taipei this year at the end of December as the next marathon will be taking place on the *21^st of December 2025. Pack your running shoes and run over to CIT.travel/destinations/#taiwan to check out all the tours lined up for you to experience this marathon with ease. Let Taiwan be the dream destination for your family this holiday season.

*Disclaimer: Event dates are subject to change without prior notice.

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